Wizards coach says John Wall must take ‘next step’

WASHINGTON — Washington Wizards coach Randy Wittman says point guard John Wall needs to take the next step in his NBA development.

Wall, entering his third season after the Wizards picked him No. 1 overall in 2010, averaged 16.3 points, 8.0 assists and 4.5 rebounds per game last year — all slightly down from his rookie season.

Wittman also predicted Wednesday that Nene, who will likely be limited during training camp due to plantar fasciitis, won’t be out long. Nene is part of a new cast surrounding Wall that Wittman says has increased the team’s professionalism.

In March, Washington acquired Nene and Brian Cook. After their season, the Wizards traded for Emeka Okafor and Trevor Ariza, drafted Bradley Beal with the No. 3 overall pick and signed A.J. Price and Martell Webster.